Learn about the differences between high school and college degree programs and what laws protect students with disabilities.
Preparing for Postsecondary Education and Training
After high school, your child may want to continue their education or training to reach their career and life goals. There are many options, including college degree-seeking programs (Associate’s, Bachelor’s) and non-degree seeking inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) programs for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Other paths include career tech certificate programs (construction, healthcare, auto tech), military service, Job Corps, community programs (day programs, social clubs, libraries, colleges, career tech adult education), internships, apprenticeships, and other on-the-job training opportunities.
Success looks different for everyone. To help your child succeed, plan, prepare, and explore ways to pay for further education. They should understand their options and choose what best matches their strengths, interests, and needs. Knowing the differences between high school and life after graduation—and using self-advocacy skills—will help them thrive. Working with them at home and with the IEP team can build important skills. Use the resources on this page to support their future learning plans.
What Youth and Families Need to Know about Degree-Seeking College Programs
This video from PACER’s National Parent Center on Transition and Employment features Erika Theiler, a Transition and Employment Specialist at PACER’s National Parent Center on Transition and Employment, describing the process for accessing accommodations in college and providing tips on how to prepare while still in high school.
Resources
IPSE is college for students with intellectual disability. Find out more in this Guide.
Tips for young people with disabilities on effective strategies for building their first resume.
Students with disabilities receive different levels of support at college than they did in high school. Read this fact sheet to learn more!
Side by side comparison to understanding the differences between secondary and postsecondary education.
Standard print, large print, Spanish, and braille ready are available.
A resource guide for individuals with disabilities and their families across the lifespan.
Standard Print, large print, Spanish, and braille ready options available.
Standard print, large print, Spanish, and braille ready are available.
O*NET is the main resource in the U.S. for information about different jobs and careers.
Explore careers, take assessments, create education plans, and connect with employers online.
Explore resources for succeeding during and after high school, including financial aid, careers & more.
Visit OK Edge to learn more about Individual Career and Academic Planning.
Check out the library! It’s free, fun, and full of resources to help youth succeed!
This website page from PACER has free downloads on many transition topics.
Check out these resources about Oklahoma IPSE non-degree college programs!
These tools help students and families envision a good life and identify necessary supports.
This is the Policy Guide on Transition from Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services.
The Virtual College Campus Tour was created to help teens explore the world of post-secondary education through the comforts of home. This virtual college campus tour can help students discover and explore the many different types of higher education institutions available and answers the questions a student with a disability needs to ask to have a successful experience.
Explore Zarrow Institute’s free self-determination resources—empower students with skills for success, independence, and advocacy.